NASCIMENTO, L. S. M.; http://lattes.cnpq.br/4056258929954134; NASCIMENTO, Laura Sabrina Marcelino do.
Abstract:
The aging of the Brazilian population has been a reality in recent decades and projections
point to an even greater growth. In the senescence process, a series of physiological,
metabolic, social and psychological changes naturally occur that can lead to important
nutritional risks. Elderly people residing in long-stay institutions (LTCIs) are the most
susceptible. The present study aimed to assess the nutritional status of elderly people aged
65 to 95 years old, residents of a LTCI in the city of Alexandria/RN, through
anthropometry and the Mini Nutritional Assessment (MNA), a questionnaire consisting
of 18 (eighteen) items, whose evaluation is carried out based on the number of points
added using various criteria. The final score generated by MNA identified the risk of
malnutrition in the institution's elderly, even without considerable loss of intake and
weight. Some elderly people have gone through acute stress in recent times, in addition
to having some limitations such as: loss of mobility and neuropsychological problems
that can contribute to the appearance of nutritional disorders. Even with a good intake of
protein-rich foods, a low consumption of meat, fish and poultry was observed, which can
also lead to nutritional losses. Another important point to be highlighted is the
institutionalization of the elderly analyzed, who feel alone, far from their family, home
and their old life. It is necessary that the entire support network and multidisciplinary
team be able to devise strategies that contribute to improving the eating habits and well-
being of the elderly, avoiding the appearance of nutritional risks and, consequently, health
problems for the institutionalized.
